Not only does yoga improve physical fitness and flexibility, but it also might help reduce stress and anxiety, according to MayoClinic.com. Yoga practices typically include postures, which build strength and flexibility, and breathing exercises, which help relax the mind and maximize effectiveness. Although there are several types of yoga practices that appeal to a wide range of exercise needs, all yoga styles are geared toward the attainment of harmony between mind and body.
Kundalini
Kundalini was a highly secretive yoga practice until 1969, when Yogi Bhajan introduced it to the general public. According to HariSingh.com, the word kundalini means "the curl of the lock of the hair of the beloved" and symbolizes the unity of individual consciousness with universal energy. Fundamental movements and poses include breath of fire, a rapid breathing technique, and bandhas, or locks, which are meant to open the energy flow throughout the body. The primary goal of kundalini is the release of built-up energy at the base of the spine, known as kundalini energy. In addition to postures and breathing techniques, this release is also accomplished by chanting a variety of mantras.
Ashtanga
As noted at Ashtanga.com, the word ashtanga means "eight-limbed yoga" and is derived from an ancient manuscript. Ashtanga yoga focuses on internal purification through the performance of eight fundamental poses. Each pose emphasizes a particular practice, such as concentration, breath control, moral code and posture. Ashtanga yoga also emphasizes vinyasas, or coordinations of breathing and movement, as well as elimination of the six poisons: desire, anger, delusion, greed, envy and sloth. According to YogaJournal.com, a new style of ashtanga yoga has increased in popularity in recent years. This variation uses only six poses and is very fast-paced. The current master of ashtanga yoga is Pattabhi Jois, who has possessed the original manuscript since 1927.
Bikram
Bikram yoga, named after its founder Bikram Choudhury, is also known as hot yoga, and for good reason. This yoga practice adds heat to the basic yoga experience, and bikram yoga studios are typically warmed all the way up to 105 degrees F. The heat not only replicates the arid climate of India, the birthplace of bikram yoga, but also causes the body to sweat, which is believed to cleanse the body, eliminate toxins and provide optimal stretching for the muscles. This yoga practice uses a specific sequence of 26 postures and focuses on cleansing the inside of the body to increase overall health. Bikram yoga was introduced to the United States in 1971 and continues to be taught by Choudhury, who lives in Los Angeles.
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